Are you ready to do something about the problem? Want to get involved? Join a growing team of people like you and find out ways to become part of the solution.

Impact Our World

We can affect change in our own backyard and our community by implementing a few changes in our everyday lives.

Make wise choices at the market
Our everyday choices can have long lasting impacts on the environment. In making any choices in the market, consider both how and where the product is made or grown. As a general rule, products created with fewer inputs (water, chemicals, etc.) use less energy to produce and may be better health choices as well. We as consumers have the power to drive the market; our choices are our voices. Let them be heard and lead by example.

Reduce household pollutants
Think twice before pouring chemicals down drains, or flushing drugs down toilets; they could end up in our drinking water. To find out how to dispose of hazardous household waste and learn about alternatives for household cleaning, visit Earth 911.

Give up the bottle — bottled water, that is.
Your tap water might not be as bad as you think. Check out the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencies local drinking water information. Tests have shown that in many municipalities, tap water actually tastes better. Remember bottled water can be more expensive per gallon than gasoline, has a significant carbon footprint and plastic doesn't biodegrade. If you want to carry your water with you, check out the National Geographic Green Guide for some wise container options. If your water at home tastes funny, try an activated charcoal or ceramic filter.

Cut your carbon emission and save money.
Some easy steps include: changing your incandescent lightbulbs to florescent ones; unplugging computers and appliances when not in use; and carpooling or taking public transport when you can.

Planning a trip anytime soon? Go green.
To find out more about ecotourism and how you can reduce or even offset the impacts of your travel on the environment visitNational Geographic's Green Guide.

Creating a shopping list with all recyclable items
Start with bringing your own bag to the store rather than using plastic or paper and buy products that aren't over-packaged. If you must buy plastic products, stick to those made of recyclable plastic. Look for no.1 and no.2 on the bottom of plastic products–these are the easiest to recycle.

Support policies and elected officials that keep the safety of our water systems in mind
Find out where your representatives stand on environmental issues.

In the United States, you can contact your federal, state and local officials to let them hear your views at www.congress.org.

Join the growing community movement to become part of the solution
Join local organization to clean up beaches, restore wetlands, stencil water drains. Visit the list of organization below for activities in your area and join the on-line community movement at Strange Days Causes.

The Ocean Project Get involved in community conservation. Search the national and international community conservation maps for organization and programs near you.